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M-TECH in Power System And Automation at GITAM (Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management)
Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Power System and Automation at GITAM (Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management) Visakhapatnam?
This M.Tech Power System and Automation program at GITAM, Visakhapatnam, focuses on advanced concepts in power generation, transmission, distribution, and control. It addresses the evolving Indian power sector, emphasizing smart grid technologies, renewable energy integration, and automation for efficient and reliable electricity networks. The program equips students with expertise in critical areas demanded by modern utilities and industries.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for electrical engineering graduates seeking to specialize in the dynamic power sector. It suits fresh graduates aiming for roles in power utilities, renewable energy companies, or R&D. Mid-career professionals in the energy industry can also leverage this to upskill in automation, smart grids, and sustainable energy practices, advancing their careers in India''''s growing energy landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in public sector undertakings (PSUs) like NTPC, PGCIL, and state electricity boards, or private players such as Tata Power and Adani Power. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 5-8 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Roles include Power System Engineer, R&D Engineer, Automation Specialist, and Renewable Energy Consultant, aligning with India''''s push for energy security and sustainability.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Power System Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand advanced concepts in power system stability, protection, and operation taught in the first two semesters. Utilize online courses from NPTEL, Coursera, or edX on topics like ''''Power System Analysis'''' or ''''Advanced Power Systems'''' to supplement classroom learning. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and solve numerical problems efficiently.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Standard textbooks (e.g., K.R. Padiyar, O.P. Wadhwa), MATLAB for basic simulations
Career Connection
A strong grasp of these fundamentals is crucial for passing technical interviews for PSUs and core power companies, forming the bedrock for advanced roles in design, analysis, and R&D.
Develop Proficiency in Simulation Software- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in lab sessions for Advanced Power Systems and Power System Automation. Go beyond prescribed experiments by exploring additional features and conducting self-driven mini-projects using tools like ETAP, PSCAD/EMTDC, and MATLAB/SIMULINK. Seek out advanced tutorials and online communities for these specific software applications.
Tools & Resources
ETAP, PSCAD/EMTDC, MATLAB/SIMULINK, Software documentation and online forums
Career Connection
Proficiency in industry-standard simulation software is a highly sought-after skill for roles in power system planning, analysis, and control, significantly enhancing employability in India''''s power sector.
Build a Strong Foundation in Research Methodology- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to the Research Methodology and IPR course. Practice critical literature review, effective technical writing, and presentation skills. Start identifying potential research interests early and read research papers in those areas to understand current trends and gaps, even before formal project work begins.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, Grammarly
Career Connection
This foundation is essential for successful M.Tech project work, potential PhD studies, and R&D roles in companies or academic institutions, providing skills in innovation and problem-solving.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Industry-Relevant Mini-Projects and Internships- (Semester 3 (during summer breaks and parallel to coursework))
Seek out summer internships (after Sem 2) or short-term industry projects in areas like smart grid development, renewable energy integration, or substation automation. Approach local power distribution companies, state electricity boards, or private energy firms in Visakhapatnam/Andhra Pradesh for opportunities. Focus on practical application of learned concepts.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Company career pages, Faculty contacts for referrals
Career Connection
Practical industry exposure is invaluable for understanding real-world challenges, building professional networks, and making a resume stand out during campus placements, especially for core engineering roles.
Specialize in Elective Domains- (Semester 2-3)
Carefully choose electives in areas like FACTS, Smart Grid, HVDC, or Renewable Energy Systems based on career aspirations. Delve deeper into these specialized topics through advanced online courses, certifications, or workshops. Attend relevant technical conferences or webinars to stay updated on emerging technologies and industry best practices in India.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL advanced courses, IEEE conferences, Industry workshops
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes graduates highly competitive for niche roles in rapidly growing sectors like renewable energy, smart infrastructure, and high-voltage transmission, which are key investment areas in India.
Participate in Technical Competitions and Hackathons- (Semester 2-3)
Engage in national or regional technical competitions, hackathons, or project contests focused on power systems, renewable energy, or automation. These platforms offer opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge, work in teams, and innovate solutions to real-world problems, often with industry sponsorship.
Tools & Resources
IEEEXtreme, Smart India Hackathon, Institutional technical fests
Career Connection
Participation demonstrates problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and practical skills to potential employers, enhancing soft skills and providing a competitive edge in the Indian job market.
Advanced Stage
Excel in M.Tech Project Work with Industry Mentorship- (Semester 3-4)
Choose a project topic that is highly relevant to current industry needs or significant research areas. Ideally, collaborate with an industry mentor or pursue a project sponsored by a power utility or research lab. Focus on delivering tangible outcomes, robust analysis, and a well-documented thesis that showcases your expertise.
Tools & Resources
Industry contacts through faculty, Research papers, patents, Advanced simulation software
Career Connection
A high-quality M.Tech project is a strong testament to your technical abilities, research acumen, and problem-solving skills, significantly boosting prospects for R&D roles, specialist positions, and academic pursuits.
Intensive Placement Preparation and Networking- (Semester 3-4)
Begin placement preparation early by practicing aptitude tests, technical interview questions (specific to power systems), and soft skills. Attend pre-placement talks, workshops, and mock interview sessions organized by the career services cell. Actively network with alumni and industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn to explore opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell resources, Online aptitude platforms, LinkedIn, Alumni network
Career Connection
Proactive and targeted placement preparation ensures readiness for the competitive Indian job market, maximizing chances for securing desired positions in PSUs, private power companies, and R&D firms.
Explore Entrepreneurship and Higher Studies- (Semester 4)
For those inclined towards entrepreneurship, explore opportunities in green energy startups or smart grid solutions, leveraging incubation centers if available. Alternatively, if pursuing higher education, prepare for competitive exams like UGC NET/GATE or GRE/TOEFL for PhD programs, focusing on research proposal development and securing strong recommendations.
Tools & Resources
GITAM''''s incubation cell, Startup India resources, GATE/GRE study materials, Faculty guidance
Career Connection
This practice allows students to either contribute to India''''s startup ecosystem in energy tech or embark on advanced research careers, leading to innovations and academic leadership roles.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E./B.Tech. or equivalent in EEE/EIE/ECE/ECE with 50% marks or equivalent grade from a recognized University.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 63 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GETM701 | Research Methodology and IPR | Core | 3 | Research problem formulation, Research design and methods, Data collection and analysis, Report writing and presentation, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), Patents and copyrights |
| GEEC701 | Power System Stability | Core | 3 | Rotor dynamics and swing equation, Equal area criterion, Transient stability analysis, Voltage stability concepts, Small signal stability, Methods of improving stability |
| GEEC702 | Advanced Power System Protection | Core | 3 | Protective relaying principles, Digital protection schemes, Overcurrent and directional relays, Differential and distance relays, Relay coordination, Adaptive relaying |
| GEEC703 | Power System Operation and Control | Core | 3 | Economic dispatch, Unit commitment, Automatic Generation Control (AGC), Reactive power control, State estimation, Power system security |
| GEEE7XX | Elective I | Elective | 3 | Choice from:, FACTS (Flexible AC Transmission Systems), Smart Grid, HVDC Transmission |
| GEEC721 | Advanced Power Systems Lab | Lab | 2 | Power system simulation tools, Protective relay testing, Fault analysis studies, Stability analysis experiments, Power flow studies |
| GEEC722 | Power System Automation Lab | Lab | 2 | SCADA system implementation, PLC programming for power applications, RTU configurations, Substation automation systems, Communication protocols in smart grid |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GETM702 | Technical Seminar | Project | 2 | Literature review, Technical report writing, Presentation skills, Research topic identification, Oral communication |
| GEEC707 | Restructured Power Systems | Core | 3 | Power sector deregulation, Electricity market models, Congestion management, Ancillary services, Pricing mechanisms, Regulatory frameworks |
| GEEC708 | Power System Dynamics and Control | Core | 3 | Synchronous machine modeling, Excitation systems and AVR, Power System Stabilizers (PSS), Load modeling and characteristics, Transient stability improvements |
| GEEC709 | Distributed Generation and Microgrids | Core | 3 | Renewable energy sources for DG, DG integration challenges, Microgrid architectures, Microgrid control strategies, Protection of microgrids, Smart grid integration |
| GEEE7XX | Elective II | Elective | 3 | Choice from:, Advanced Digital Signal Processing, Renewable Energy Systems, Energy Management and Auditing |
| GEEC723 | Power System Modeling and Simulation Lab | Lab | 2 | MATLAB/SIMULINK for power systems, PSCAD/EMTDC applications, ETAP software for analysis, Power flow and fault calculations, Dynamic simulations |
| GEEC724 | Soft Skills and Professional Ethics | Value Added Course | 1 | Communication skills, Teamwork and leadership, Professional ethics and values, Corporate social responsibility, Problem-solving |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEEC891 | Project Work Part – A | Project | 10 | Problem identification and definition, Extensive literature survey, Development of methodology, Preliminary design and experimentation, Progress report and presentation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEEC892 | Project Work Part – B | Project | 14 | Implementation and testing of solutions, Data analysis and interpretation, Results and discussion, Thesis writing and documentation, Final viva-voce examination |
